Jarrett's Fight with Ulcerative Colitis

As most of you know, “I need help” isn't easy to ask for, even in honest times of need. The past few months have brought on more time off work than most would have off in a year, and sadly, we’re not talking vacation. Late August brought on an episode with my herniated L4, which led to days out in recovery, unable to work. Things were looking up as September came around, and I enrolled in my local gym. I finally could focus on my core, and my L4 felt supported. With beautiful foliage and the smell of Autumn in the air, life seemed to be going smoothly again.

Out of nowhere, I began experiencing excruciating pain in my abdomen. I was left with no choice but a trip to the E.R. Once admitted and examined by a plethora of probes and tests, they determined it was Ulcerative Colitis(UC). At 32 years old, with no previous symptoms or signs of gastrointestinal upset, I was in disbelief. As a Chef spending most of my time in the kitchen at home in Hampton or Toscana Chophouse, I am embarking on a lifelong journey to find my best healing course.

A lengthy list of drugs couldn't touch the pain or inflammation until the biosimilar, Infliximab, was recommended. So far, the Infliximab(INFLECTRA) has been a saving grace and has put me almost back on my feet. So far, 18 nights in the hospital without any personal income, the $130,000 climbing bill is taking a toll on my spirit, so I am asking for help.

The plan for the future is infusions of the INFLECTRA to keep the UC at bay, costing $44,000 per 1,000mg infusion. So far, I am 2 infusions in, with the plan for a third in two weeks if financially possible. With hopes to treat my UC by diet management and not require treatment in the future, the infusions are critical to getting my body in complete remission as soon as possible. With the current economy, everyone has plans to tighten the belt on spending, but please know that any help will be loved and appreciated beyond measure.

With love and appreciation,

The Parizo-Kellermans